Savory Sausage & Sweet Potato Skillet

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Introduction

Savory Sausage & Sweet Potato Skillet is a hearty and nutritious meal that is perfect for any time of the day. This dish offers a delightful balance of flavors, combining the savory richness of sausage with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes and the freshness of vibrant vegetables. Whether you are looking for a satisfying breakfast, a quick lunch, or a wholesome dinner, this skillet recipe is versatile and easy to prepare.

Packed with essential nutrients and comforting tastes, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend brunches. With a minimal number of ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Recipe Overview

– Total Time: 30 minutes

– Servings: 4

– Difficulty: Easy

Ingredients

– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage

– 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced

– 1 bell pepper, diced

– 1 onion, chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 tsp smoked paprika

– 1 tsp dried oregano

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 2 tbsp olive oil

– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sweet Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.

2. Once the sausage is cooked through, add the diced sweet potatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are tender.

3. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.

4. Sprinkle the smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir well to incorporate all the flavors and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving.

Understanding the Ingredients

Sweet Italian Sausage

Sweet Italian sausage is the star of this dish, bringing a rich and savory flavor profile that pairs beautifully with sweet potatoes. The seasoning blend typically includes fennel, garlic, and various herbs, enhancing the overall taste and adding depth to the skillet.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, they contribute a natural sweetness that balances the savory elements of the dish. Their creamy texture when cooked makes them a perfect companion to the sausage.

Vegetables (Bell Pepper, Onion, Garlic)

The combination of bell pepper, onion, and garlic adds layers of flavor and nutrition. Bell peppers provide a crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness, onions add depth and aroma, while garlic brings a fragrant kick that elevates the overall taste of the skillet.

Spices and Seasonings

Spices like smoked paprika and oregano play a crucial role in creating a well-rounded flavor profile. Smoked paprika adds a subtle smokiness that enhances the dish, while oregano contributes a warm, earthy note. Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning, ensuring that each bite is flavorful and satisfying.

Browning the Sausage: Enhancing Flavor

Browning the sausage is a crucial step that elevates the overall taste of your Savory Sausage & Sweet Potato Skillet. When sausage is seared in the skillet, it develops a rich, caramelized crust through the Maillard reaction, creating complex flavors that infuse the dish. This not only adds depth but also releases flavorful oils that will season the other ingredients as they cook. Ensure the sausage is cooked until it’s nicely browned, but not overcooked to preserve its juiciness.

Sautéing the Sweet Potatoes and Vegetables

Achieving the perfect texture for sweet potatoes is essential for a satisfying dish. To do this, consider cutting the sweet potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. A great technique is to initially steam them with a splash of water in the skillet; this softens the potatoes and decreases frying time while preserving their natural sweetness. Once they are tender, allow them to brown slightly by increasing the heat and sautéing them with the other vegetables until they’re golden and crisp.

Infusing Flavors with Garlic and Spices

To maximize flavor, timing is everything when adding garlic and spices. Introduce minced garlic to the skillet just a minute or two before the end of the cooking process. This will prevent it from burning and losing its aromatic qualities. Additionally, add spices such as paprika or cumin at the same time, allowing them to toast slightly, which will enhance their flavors and create a fragrant base for the dish.

Combining and Finishing Touches

Once the sausage is browned, and the sweet potatoes and vegetables are sautéed, it’s time to combine everything. Gently fold the ingredients together in the skillet, allowing them to meld and share their flavors. Letting the mixture cook together for a few minutes will create a harmonious dish, where every bite is a delightful blend of savory sausage and sweet potatoes.

Optional Breakfast Twist: Adding Eggs

For a hearty breakfast option, consider incorporating eggs into your skillet.

Creating Wells for Eggs

To do this, create small wells in the mixture using a spoon. Crack an egg into each well and cover the skillet. Cook on low heat until the whites are set and the yolks reach your desired doneness. For runny yolks, about 5-6 minutes will suffice, while a firmer yolk will require an additional minute or two.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Savory Sausage & Sweet Potato Skillet hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. This dish is visually appealing with its vibrant colors and hearty ingredients, making it perfect for family gatherings or meal prep. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a more complete meal that balances flavors and textures.

Nutritional Information

The Savory Sausage & Sweet Potato Skillet is not only delicious but also nutritious. A typical serving contains approximately 350 calories, with about 20 grams of protein, 30 grams of carbohydrates, and 15 grams of fat. Sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, while sausage provides a good source of protein. Together, these ingredients create a balanced meal that is satisfying and beneficial for your health.

Conclusion

In summary, the Savory Sausage & Sweet Potato Skillet is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Its combination of browned sausage, tender sweet potatoes, and aromatic spices creates a satisfying meal that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. With its nutritional benefits and ease of preparation, this skillet dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy the comfort and satisfaction it brings to your table!

Easy Skillet Sausage Sweet Potato Skillet

Looking for a delightful and nutritious meal? This Savory Sausage & Sweet Potato Skillet is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a leisurely brunch. With its creamy sweet potatoes and savory sausage, each bite is a comforting burst of flavor that will leave you craving more. Quick to prepare and packed with vibrant veggies, it's an ideal dish for busy days. Try it tonight and save this recipe for those hectic evenings!

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Ingredients

  

1 lb (450g) sweet Italian sausage, casings removed

2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced into small cubes

1 bell pepper (red or yellow), diced

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional: 4 large eggs (to make it a breakfast skillet)

Instructions

 

Cook the Sausage: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, add the sweet Italian sausage. Use a spatula to break the sausage into smaller pieces. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the sausage to a plate and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced sweet potatoes and spread them out in an even layer. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Next, add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Continue to sauté the mixture for another 5-7 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. If necessary, add a splash of water to help steam the sweet potatoes and cook them through.

Add Garlic and Seasonings: When the sweet potatoes are nearly done, stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic is fragrant and the seasonings are well incorporated.

Combine Ingredients: Add the previously cooked sausage back into the skillet, mixing it thoroughly with the sweet potato and vegetable medley. Allow everything to cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes, letting the flavors meld.

Optional Eggs: If you want to include eggs for a hearty breakfast twist, create small wells in the mixture using the back of a spoon. Crack an egg into each well and cover the skillet with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the eggs are set to your preferred doneness.

Garnish and Serve: After removing the skillet from the heat, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve this savory dish warm, directly from the pan, and savor the delightful combination of flavors!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 min | 25 min | 4 servings

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